THURSDAY: A fresh batch of Hoppy Birthday, Alpine Beer's dry-hopped pale ale, was released a few days ago. Sounds like it's time to head for the hills, where the brewery's pub is open from 11 a.m. until 10 tonight, and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Or just wander next door to the brewery, which welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.

FRIDAY: Drop by Modern Times' tasting room to sample the latest brews and, suitably inspired, decorate the in-house Christmas tree. Or pick up a brush and enter the ongoing watercolor competition. The tasting room is open from noon to 9 p.m.

SATURDAY: The Coaster Saloon, a Mission Beach institution and one of San Diego's greatest dives, is offering free tasters of brews from San Marcos' Rip Current. Buy a pint and you can keep the glass. Lupulin Lust and other Rip-roaring brews will start to flow at 4 p.m.

SUNDAY: Three craft beers paired with three artisanal cheeses for $12? That's a great deal, especially since the brews are from Benchmark and the fromage from Brother's Provisions. Beery Cheesmas starts at noon.